About

The Nature Center is located within the 1,100-acre Oregon Ridge Park in Baltimore County. The park was an active iron-ore and marble mining operation during the mid-19th century. Visitors can enjoy learning about the past through mining town remains and several interpretive displays. In addition to the historical displays, several exhibits on natural history can be found along the trails. All groups of 10 or more must contact the Nature Center prior to their visit.

The Oregon Ridge Nature Center, the first nature center built by Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks, features:

Exhibit hall

Living classroom containing native animals

Non-lending nature library

Nature observation areas

Staff working area

After exploring the center, visitors can hike on a network of trails and experience firsthand three diverse habitats—the forest, the field and the stream. Additionally, the meadow contains picnic tables, several outdoor exhibits and a wildlife management pond. Three pavilions are available for rent.

Hikers will enjoy almost five miles of trails that vary in difficulty and pass through a variety of habitats including forests, meadows, lakes and streams. Bikes and horses are not permitted and dogs must be leashed at all times. Please be courteous and responsible by cleaning up after your pet.

Programs and Special Events

Learn more about the programs or view a calendar of events featured at Oregon Ridge Nature Center. Meetings of the Nature Center Council are held on the third Monday of the month. All are welcome.

Programming and Special Events

Most programs are free and open to the public. Some programs require advance registration. Call ahead to verify.

Children's Nature Programs

Native Species Programs

Seasonal and Holiday Programs

Guided Hikes

Campfires and Night Hikes

Scout Badge Workshops

Birthday Parties

Summer Camps

Featured Special Events

Maple Sugaring Weekends

Annual Pancake Breakfast

Music in the Woods: Traditional Music Fest

Honey Harvest Festival

Adult Evening Programs

The Oregon Ridge Nature Center Council evening adult programming includes a lecture series featuring authors, botanists, biologists, scientists and other environmental experts. Lectures are held at 7 p.m. on the third Monday of the month except for February, July and August. The Nature Book Club meets every other month on the third Monday and the Dulcimer Workshop is a six-week session in the Spring and Fall each year.